The St. Joseph School Parent Club is an organization open to all parents and staff at the school. It is led by the board members who are under the direction of the principal. At their monthly meetings, parents can find out about things that have been taking place and upcoming events. Kelly Hardwick has been the vice president for the last two years and will be stepping up as president in the fall.
“Our mission has been to bring back social things and activities that were lacking because of COVID,” Kelly says. “We do things that support the community, fundraisers that support the school, and we provide support to the teachers.”
Some of the events that the Parent Club has hosted in the past include the Welcome Back to School Picnic, Trunk-or-Treat, Pictures with Santa, the Spring Father-Daughter Dance, and a Mother-Son event. They also provide lunch for teachers during Catholic Schools Week, and staff dinners twice a year during parent-teacher conferences.
“This is a group of parents with extremely similar interests — our children,” Kelly says. “The people who participate want their children to get a Catholic education and that starts with us, the parents. We pray at the beginning of meetings, asking God to help us guide our children to have a good Catholic education and to help us make prudent decisions to use our finances toward a better good.”
The Parent Club is a wonderful opportunity for parents to get involved at the school. Many people can offer different talents and backgrounds that are necessary for the events that are hosted.
“Some people are good with money, so they can help the treasurer with finances,” Kelly says. “Some people are good at making and decorating or planning, so they could volunteer to help with our events. You can give as little or as much time as you want. Subcommittees are formed for the different events, so there is always plenty of opportunities to help and get involved.”
The Parent Club Board changes each fall and is very excited to welcome its new members for the 2023-2024 school year — Kelly Hardwick as president, Rachel Heinowski as vice president, Jennifer Kesterke as secretary, Lindsey McCarthy as treasurer, Sara Linnell as hospitality, and Art Jaskiewicz as sunshine.
“We strive to provide the information that parents need about all the activities and upcoming events,” Kelly says. “We offer an opportunity to get involved in your child’s education and to help support the staff, and we have the chance to make friendships with other parents at the school. It is an important group and we want all parents to be involved.”
If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Kelly Hardwick at jkhardwich80@gmail.com.